Certificates of Sponsorship

A clear starting point

Assign the right sponsorship record with consistent role, salary and applicant information. This page sets out the questions to consider before choosing an application and paying any charges.

Licensed sponsors preparing to sponsor an eligible worker or manage their certificate allocation. The correct approach depends on the exact permission, application location and immigration history involved. A similar-looking case may be subject to a different rule or transitional arrangement.

Who is this for?

Licensed sponsors preparing to sponsor an eligible worker or manage their certificate allocation.

General eligibility and requirements

Check whether a defined or undefined certificate is appropriate, whether an allocation is available, and whether the job meets the relevant route requirements.

Check the current official guidance for the intended submission date. If you have a previous refusal, an approaching expiry date or a change in circumstances, include that in your initial enquiry. These details may affect what is possible and how urgently you need advice.

Supporting documents

A useful evidence file addresses the specific requirements, with clear dates and consistent personal details. Depending on your circumstances, the following may be relevant:

• Worker identity
• role duties
• occupation code
• salary and hours
• work location
• proposed dates
• sponsor licence and allocation records

This is a preparation list, not an exhaustive submission checklist. Check required formats, relevant evidence periods and translation requirements. Keep an exact copy of the final application and evidence. See our document preparation guide for a practical way to organise your records.

The application process

1. Confirm the worker’s location and application type before deciding whether a defined or undefined certificate is required. Check allocation availability and relevant sponsor permissions.
2. Review duties, occupation code, pay, hours, work location and dates. Assess the applicable charges and who must pay them under current sponsor guidance.
3. Assign an accurate electronic record and give the worker the reference and relevant details. Monitor the visa outcome and any reportable change rather than assuming assignment grants work permission.

For appeals, protection and employer compliance matters, the relevant procedure may be a review, tribunal process or ongoing duty rather than a visa application. The official source below identifies the appropriate starting point.

Government fees & processing times

Professional fees are separate from government charges. Ask for a written quote confirming scope, any VAT, exclusions and additional costs. Our fees information explains what to clarify. Paying for a faster service does not guarantee approval or a decision by a particular date.

Common issues to consider

Assigning the wrong certificate type, incorrect occupation codes, incompatible dates and failing to assess the Immigration Skills Charge.

Where a record is missing or inconsistent, explain the issue honestly and establish which evidence can address it. Do not amend a document to make it appear to meet a requirement. For help preparing for a discussion, read our consultation preparation guide.

Frequently asked questions